Mental health providers: Find one to suit your needs

If you've never consulted mental health providers before, you may not know how to find one who suits your specific needs. Here are some issues and tips to think about, along with questions to ask potential mental health providers.

Know if your health insurer selects mental health providers

Sometimes, you may not have a choice of mental health providers. Your health insurance company may dictate which type of mental health providers you can visit. It may even refer you to specific mental health providers. Your insurance company or Medicare or Medicaid can tell you what types of mental health providers it provides coverage for and what your benefit limits are. Some insurance plans, for instance, authorize more visits to a nurse, social worker or psychologist than to a psychiatrist, whose fees are usually higher.

Learn the characteristics of mental health providers

Your legwork doesn't stop once you have some potential mental health providers in mind. Before scheduling your first appointment, think about whether you have preferences or needs regarding:

• Gender
• Age
• Religion
• Language
• Cultural background

Don't feel bad about ruling out some mental health providers based on these criteria. Your comfort level is important since you may be establishing a long-term relationship. Even tone of voice or appearance may matter to you. Although you usually won't know how mental health providers look ahead of time, some clinics, organizations or associations post pictures and biographies online, if you feel those characteristics are important to know.

Evaluate progress with your mental health provider

Once you choose a mental health provider, make sure the match is working. If you don't feel comfortable after the first visit, talk about your concerns at your next session. Or consider finding a new mental health provider. As time goes by, think about how you feel and whether your needs are being met. Don't feel compelled to stay with a mental health provider if you're not comfortable.

The process of choosing a mental health provider and the treatment itself can be hard work or downright painful. But it can also be rewarding. You may resolve long-standing conflicts, overcome personal challenges and ultimately enjoy your life more.